Chad Everett dies at 75

Actor starred in 1970s TV series 'Medical Center'

Chad Everett, the star of the 1970s TV series “Medical Center” who went on to appear in such films and shows as “Mulholland Dr.” and “Melrose Place,” died Tuesday at his home in Los Angeles after a year-and-a-half-long battle with lung cancer. He was 75.

The handsome Everett played sensitive doctor Joe Gannon for seven years on “Medical Center.” The role earned him two Golden Globes and an Emmy nomination.

Everett’s acting career spanned more than 40 years and included guest starring roles on such TV series as “The Love Boat,” “Murder, She Wrote” and “Without a Trace.” He most recently appeared in the TV series “Castle.” His films credits include “The Jigsaw Murders,” “The Firechasers” and director Gus Van Sant’s “Psycho.”

Everett was born in South Bend, Ind., and graduated from Wayne State University before moving to Los Angeles and becoming a contract player with MGM.

In perhaps his most memorable recent film role, Everett played an aging lothario who engages in a steamy audition with a young ingénue portrayed by Naomi Watts in director David Lynch’s 2001 pic “Mulholland Dr.”

Everett is survived by his two daughters and six grandchildren. He was married to actress Shelby Grant for 45 years until her death last year.